To support community wellness in South Pacific County through active collaborations

The new zip line OPCRC is working towards would include a climbing wall and vertical play pen.

Ocean Park Camp & Retreat Center (OPCRC) has been a mainstay of the peninsula, serving as a place of faith-based inclusion, community programs, team-building, childcare, and more than 100 acres of natural beauty. The OPRC recently celebrated its 75th anniversary, and has a long history of bringing groups together to enjoy the outdoors, build leadership skills among youth, and create church connections here on the peninsula.A new zip line, along with climbing tower and “vertical playpen,” is the newest proposed addition to the camp, which aims to be another way for participants to learn to depend on one another and find their own strengths.The new climbing tower and vertical playpen that will accompany the zip line will be open to all ages of participants and encourage teamwork while giving the participants a realization of their own skill set. It will consist of a row of obstacles that two participants must navigate together.

“The activities are designed to be just another way we can get people to depend on each other and to find their own strengths,” explained Brandon Scheer, OPCRC Director. “While the zip line portion of the experience in our camping programs is typically reserved for older campers, both the tower and the zip-line present opportunities for participants to take risks in a safe and managed environment.

“They are able to step out of their comfort zone and grow in confidence because of it,” said Scheer. “Aside from being a personal challenge, groups benefit greatly by supporting one another and cheering each other on in a way that promotes positive peer pressure.”

The new zip line will cost a projected $50,000, however the community quickly raised most of the funds for the zip line and climbing tower. Longtime supporters and camp volunteers Ray and Harriet Johnson offered a $25,000 matching gift to this project, once the initial $25,000 is raised.

“They believe strongly in the power of camp and the way it can make positive change and influence the lives of our campers,” said Scheer. “Their ongoing dedication and support speaks volumes to need for camp and youth to have a positive, Christ-centered experience.”

With only $3,000 left to raise, OPCRC is asking the community to raise the final amount.

“We believe in the youth of the peninsula and strive to give them opportunities for growth,” said Scheer.

To donate to OPCRC and help them raise the final $3,000 go to: http://opretreat.org/donate/ or mail a check with “zip line,” in the memo to: